Plants have long been more than just green decoration in the home. They reflect the spirit of the times, our personal desires and sometimes even our insecurities. Certain species suddenly become hugely popular, such as the Monstera deliciosa or tiny orchids, while others are slowly disappearing from our living rooms and online stores. But why is it that a plant suddenly appears everywhere and then disappears from view again? And what does that say about us as humans?
A brief look back at plant hypes over time
Victorian ferns
Although social media has come to play an important role in setting trends in recent decades, fascination with certain plant species has existed for much longer. In Victorian England, people fell under the spell of ferns. These elegant plants were seen as mysterious and refined, which fit perfectly with the romantic worldview of the time.
Floaty seventies
In the 1970s, hanging plants, rubber trees and succulents were particularly popular. At a time when freedom, self-expression and a renewed connection with nature became important, these plants were a perfect fit for the interior design and lifestyle of the time.
Houseplant evolution
Each generation seems to have its own plant favorites, and often these reflect much more than just taste or aesthetics.
Why some plants suddenly become popular
There are several reasons why a particular plant species suddenly becomes hype. For one, the appearance of a plant plays an important role. A Monstera with its characteristic holes in the leaves looks exotic and photogenic, which works well on platforms such as Instagram. The more often a plant appears there, the faster it is picked up by a wide audience.
Fast growing
Practical issues are also influential. Plants that are easily propagated and can be grown en masse, such as the Pilea, appear more quickly in stores and therefore receive more attention. Once a species is readily available, its chances of becoming fashionable grow.
Plants for enthusiasts
The desire for exclusivity also plays a role. Rare plants give their owners the feeling of having something special in their home. Think variegated leaves or unique shapes that are not readily available at the hardware store. But as soon as a plant becomes ubiquitous, it loses some of that status and enthusiasts start looking for something new again.
Emotion
Finally, there are also emotional reasons. During periods of stress or uncertainty, people often seek peace and comfort in nature. Plants with soft shapes, calming colors or symbolic meanings then have an extra appeal. A small eucalyptus or an ornamental orchid thus becomes more than decoration; it is a piece of well-being in the room.
Why a plant can also disappear from view again
Just as clothes or music go out of style, so do plants. Sometimes this is because a plant proves more difficult to care for than thought, or because it becomes too big for an average apartment. But often it is more subtle processes that play a role.
Loss of appeal
When a plant becomes too common, it loses its appeal. What used to be considered unique suddenly feels commonplace. In addition, our tastes are constantly changing. What was considered stylish a few years ago may feel corny or boring today. Societal ideals are also shifting. At a time when sustainability and local production are becoming more important, people are more likely to choose plants that fit those values.
What these trends reveal about ourselves
If you look closely, plant trends tell a surprising amount about who we are and what we are looking for. Plants make us feel like we can control a piece of nature and bring it close. They offer footing in a world that is often fast-paced and overwhelming. At the same time, they help us express our personality. Whether you choose a jungle-style living room, a minimalist bonsai nook or a closet full of rare variety, you are showing something of who you are and how you view the world.
So we use plants not only as decoration, but also as silent messengers of our identity, mood and values. They tell how we interact with beauty, with nature and with change.
Although it sometimes seems like plant trends just appear and disappear, there is often a deeper layer underneath. Every popular plant has a story, not only about its origin or care, but also about the time in which it emerged. By paying attention to what plants we like, what we collect and what we discard, we can also discover something about ourselves.
